Liam Rosenior provides positive Marc Cucurella injury news

Chelsea’s left-back Marc Cucurella is edging closer to a return after a hamstring complaint sidelined him for the club’s last two outings, and manager Liam Rosenior confirmed the Spain international could be back in action as early as Saturday’s FA Cup fifth-round meeting with Wrexham.

“Cucu is looking really good,” Rosenior told Absolute Chelsea ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League test against Aston Villa. “Hopefully we can get him involved for Saturday [if he isn’t available for Aston Villa].”

The 26-year-old has been a key cog in Chelsea’s defensive unit this term, registering three assists while averaging 1.8 tackles per game and conceding just 0.6 dribbles to opposing wingers. His impending return would provide a timely boost as the Blues juggle domestic and European commitments.

In Cucurella’s absence, teenage defender Jorrel Hato impressed against Arsenal, tallying three tackles and three interceptions while largely neutralising Bukayo Saka. The Dutchman’s performance has earned plaudits and, according to club insiders, another start, allowing medical staff to take a cautious approach with Cucurella’s rehabilitation.

Although Cucurella could feature against National League high-fliers Wrexham, the fifth-round tie may serve primarily as a fitness exercise ahead of a pivotal Champions League showdown with Paris Saint-Germain, a rematch of Chelsea’s Club World Cup victory over the French giants.

Estevao, another player working his way back from injury, has resumed running on the pitch, adding further depth to Rosenior’s options as the season enters a decisive phase.

Chelsea, currently in the thick of the top-five race, will welcome Cucurella’s experience and attacking thrust for the run-in, beginning with the visit of Aston Villa before attention turns to cup competitions and European ambitions.